TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
His ways are always prosperous; your laws are rejected by him; he sneers at all his enemies. He says to himself, “Nothing will ever shake me.” He swears, “No one will ever do me harm.” Psalm 10:5-6
Read: Psalm 10:1–11
Listen: Psalm 10
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Different cultures deal with pain, suffering and injustice in various ways. In ancient Israel, lament had a much more significant role than it does for us today. This isn’t really surprising. Difficulty and pain were commonplace; lament was an essential and necessary part of their daily culture. It was a culture where lament was a more regular part of life.
Most of us struggle with lament today, but it is still extremely vital to lament difficult things. Maybe it’s the company gossiper who gets the promotion instead of us. Maybe it’s the couple who doesn’t want any more kids but gets pregnant again while we continue to pray and beg God for children. When we notice the hurt and pain in our own lives or the world around us, we often want to move through it as quickly as possible or numb the pain. However, we can learn much from Psalm 10 and the practice of lament.
Lament isn’t just something we can do or something we should do. It’s something we need to do. We need to regularly remind ourselves not to pretend with God. That means making time to be honest about what we are feeling and telling God about it. Lamenting isn’t the end of the journey but a very vital step. Watch this video as Pastor Aaron Buer talks about the importance of lament.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Write out (in a journal or your mobile device) the pain, disappointment, frustration or grief you see in the world around you. Make this not just a list of grievances to complain about but a prayer of lament. Share with God what you see.
NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN
Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.
Today’s reading is Luke 3.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
